One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling south to Venice, Florence, Lucca, and San Gimignano
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Trieste, 1 night in Venice, 1 night in Florence, 1 night in Lucca, and 1 night in San Gimignano. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Italy. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Trieste, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Italy on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Italy. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ponte Vecchio, learn more about the unique Leaning Tower Of Pisa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.
As you hit the open road and drive through Trieste, Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki, Miramare / Miramar, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, Riomaggiore, and Manarola, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Italy. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Italy.
Throughout your road trip in Italy, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Italy.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!
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Day 1
- Triest - Arrival day
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- Giants' Stairway
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Welcome to Trieste, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Trieste's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Trieste is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Giants' Stairway, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Trieste. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Trieste, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Murphy's Meeting Point, a highly-rated dining destination in Trieste. If you're eager to try something different, consider Caffè Tommaseo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Al Barattolo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Trieste this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar G, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar X is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Antico Caffè Torinese provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Triest
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Drive 37 km, 1 hour 29 min
- Grotta Gigante
- canale ponterosso trieste
- Piazza della Borsa
- Unity of Italy Square
- Museo Revoltella
- Miramare Castle
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Trieste for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Trieste is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a cave, a street, a public square, a museum, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Grotta Gigante and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Canale Ponterosso Trieste, a stunning street that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Piazza Della Borsa, one of the village’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Piazza Unità D'italia. When you're finished at the public square, Revoltella Museum awaits your visit. This museum is a heritage-rich highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a castle - the interesting Miramare Castle.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Experience shopping bliss at Trieste as you explore Il Giulia Shopping Center. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Il Giulia Shopping Center offers more options, including a cinema, restaurants, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Trieste. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Rustiko, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Caffè San Marco offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Osteria Marise. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trieste.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Mast, known for its inviting atmosphere. Urbanis is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 3
- Triest
- Venice
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Bridge of Sighs
- Doge's Palace
- St Mark's Basilica
- Piazza San Marco
- Grand Canal
- Rialto Bridge
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Venice. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Venice, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Trieste on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bridge Of Sighs is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic monument before continuing your journey. Doge's Palace is your next stop. This well-known palace is one of the best-rated sights in Trieste.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit St Mark's Basilica. This grand church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Piazza San Marco and Grand Canal. If time allows, end your day with Rialto Bridge, a symbolic historical landmark that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Venice. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Venice's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bauer Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Osteria Le Guglie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Corner Pub. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Venice.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Al Parlamento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Caffe Rosso, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Adagio also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.
Day 4
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Piazza della Repubblica
- piazza della Signoria
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Florence. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Galleria Dell'accademia. This captivating art gallery is a standout place to see in Venice. Continue your discovery at Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, a respected church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Venice, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Uffizi Gallery. This famous art gallery offers a romantic encounter with Venice. Next, make your way to Ponte Vecchio to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Piazza Della Repubblica, a popular public square that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Piazza Della Signoria, a spectacular public square in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Venice.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Florence, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Di Poneta Novoli, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Caffe San Firenze. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Il Vinile is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 5
- Florence
- Lucca
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Drive 107 km, 2 hours 12 min
- Pisa Cathedral
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Guinigi Tower
- San Michele in Foro
- Walls of Lucca
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Pisa and Lucca. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucca. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s agenda in Florence includes a church, a public square, a monument, a historical landmark and much more! Pisa Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a wondrous public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a historic monument, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Florence. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the underrated Guinigi Tower. If you’re looking for more, San Michele In Foro is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Mura Di Lucca, a place of romantic interest in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lucca. Lucca offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lucca. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Gli Orti di Via Elisa, a highly-rated dining destination in Lucca. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar Caffè Ristretto, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Schiaffino. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lucca this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lebowski - Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Blend offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Franklin'33 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 6
- Lucca
- San Gimignano
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Siena Cathedral
- piazza del Campo
- Tower of Mangia
- Pubblico Palace
- Porta San Giovanni
- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Siena and San Gimignano. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Gimignano, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Lucca is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Siena Cathedral, an interesting church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Piazza Del Campo, enchanting visitors with its UNESCO world heritage-listed appeal. Continue your exploration at Tower Of Mangia. This monument is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lucca at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Pubblico Palace. After exploring the palace, head to the intriguing Porta San Giovanni. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Piazza Del Duomo, a place of UNESCO world heritage-listed interest in Lucca.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Gimignano. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of San Gimignano's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 7
- San Gimignano
- Triest
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Drive 707 km, 8 hours 50 min
- Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore
- Chiesa di San Lorenzo
- Manarola Overlook Viewpoint
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On day 7 of your road trip in Italy, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Riomaggiore and Manarola. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trieste, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Gimignano, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Church Of San Giovanni Battista Of Riomaggiore, a curiosity-inducing church in the village. Then, head to Chiesa Di San Lorenzo and soak in the ambiance of this historic church.
There are many interesting places to see in San Gimignano, and when you are ready for more, go to Manarola Overlook Viewpoint. This is one of the village’s most increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Trieste, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Trieste, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Caffè degli Specchi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chimera di Bacco as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Trieste.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to "life" New Bar Torinese Snc, known for its inviting atmosphere. White Cafe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café James Joyce provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Triest - Departure day
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- Umberto Saba Statue
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Day 8 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Trieste before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Umberto Saba Statue. This locally appreciated sightseeing destination is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Trieste’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Il Giulia Shopping Center. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Trieste.
You’ll then say farewell to Trieste. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Italy!
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